Maccabi Tel Aviv match cancelled due to 'serious disorder' after Aston Villa ban

Maccabi Tel Aviv have seen their derby clash against Hapoel Tel Aviv scrapped amid their Aston Villa ban. The game between Maccabi and Hapoel was due to take place on Sunday night at Bloomfield Stadium, but it was called off following police concerns.

Prior to kick-off, officers declared conditions at the ground too dangerous to proceed after widespread deployment of pyrotechnics from supporters which resulted in police personnel and fans suffering injuries. According to Israeli Police, three officers and five supporters were wounded during the incidents.

A police statement declared: "This was not a football game, but a case of serious disorder and violence.

"As a result, Israel Police has informed the clubs and match officials that the game cannot take place."

The Israel Professional Football Leagues Association subsequently confirmed 20 minutes after the scheduled 8:30pm kick-off time that the fixture would not proceed on police instructions, with the venue remaining shrouded in smoke.

Police also verified that confrontations between supporters erupted outside the stadium, with five arrests made and several temporary detentions for illegal assembly.

It comes after Maccabi fans were controversially banned from attending their upcoming Europa League game against Aston Villa.

No travelling supporters will be allowed inside Villa Park, with the decision being made on public safety grounds.

In an official statement, Aston Villa said: "Aston Villa can confirm the club has been informed that no away fans may attend the UEFA Europa League match with Maccabi Tel Aviv on Thursday, November 6, following an instruction from the Safety Advisory Group.

"The Safety Advisory Group (SAG) are responsible for issuing safety certificates for every match at Villa Park, based on a number of physical and safety factors.

"The SAG have formally written to the club and UEFA to advise no away fans will be permitted to attend Villa Park for this fixture.

"West Midlands Police have advised the SAG that they have public safety concerns outside the stadium bowl and the ability to deal with any potential protests on the night."